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A driving tour of two of eastern Ontario's prettiest towns with a private guide

From your hotel we will be en route to Merrickville by the "back way"which takes us through hamlets along the Rideau canal. Get a feel for the country and see the beautiful stone homes built by the Scottish masons who were the original builders of the canal.Stop at Merrickville. Visit craftsmen - the foundry, a glass blower, a leather maker. Do some antiquing if you wish or visit unique boutiques. Choose from a variety of restaurants for lunch, but leave room for some homemade ice cream.Embark for Perth, about 40 minutes away. This was the county seat for Lanark county, more developed than Merrickville. Visit the site of Canada's last duel. Museum, local artisan shops, fascinating streetscape. Brief driving tour emphasising architectural variety. Chocolate factory open in Code's Mill.Let's visit the Tea Room before returning to Ottawa, again by the "back way".

Itinerary

Pick up at your hotel. Drive secondary roads for the most part in order to see older homes, the Rideau Canal, scenic and historic locations. Morning in Merickville with time for lunch. Drive to Perth via Smith's Falls.Afternoon in Perth, the Lanark County seat. Perth Museum, Last Duel Park, spectacular Victorian homes. A visit to the tea room for a break before returning to Ottawa, again mostly by secondary roads. Return to your hotel. Duration up to 8 hours.

Meeting Location + Tour Duration

Meeting location: Pick up at your hotel

End location: Return to your hotel

Duration: 8 hours

Transportation

Volvo station wagon, air conditioned, sunroof.

What’s Included

Driving, guide services, interpretation.John knows these towns quite well. He can direct you to many different attractions depending on your interests. Architectural commentary en route.

Estimated Local Cash Needed

What’s Extra

Souvenirs, personal items, snacks. Meals as you choose.

Restrictions

No smoking during the tour.

A Recent Review of this tour

We were in Ottawa for Canada day and wanted to take a day trip to see more of the Gatineau region. We thoroughly enjoyed this excursion because we were able to drive to areas we would never have done if not for this tour. John was an excellent, knowledgeable, polite and interesting tour guide who is intent on making this tour personalized based on your interests. He was a great driver and felt 100% safe. The vehicle may be a little small if you are very tall or a larger person.Carole Trudeau